Chapter 227

Melanie hadn't considered how to tell Nathaniel about the abortion, even though she'd decided against keeping the baby. The problem with the formula was fortuitous; it allowed her to frame the abortion as a miscarriage and elicit Nathaniel's sympathy.

First, she needed to meet Frank. She chose a public place, feeling safer there. He was late and looked terrible—his eyes were terribly puffy—but at least he arrived. Since Melanie had a somewhat clear idea of Frank's personality, his appearance wasn't surprising; he always looked on the verge of illness. However, she only needed him for a short time.

"Didn't you say you were busy?" he asked, dropping several sugar cubes into his coffee, stopping after six, and stirring with his spoon.

"Miss me already?" Frank teased, taking a large sip of coffee and sighing contentedly.

Melanie stared at him until he finished speaking. "Was there anything wrong with the formula you gave me?" she asked slowly and softly, her eyes fixed on his.

"Formula? What formula?" He looked up, apparently not remembering. He glanced at Melanie, who was nervously chewing her lip.

He finally recalled, "Oh, that thing I gave you last time. I just thought of it on the spot. I've never tested it, so how would I know if it works?" His audacious tone angered Melanie. "You don't know?" she exclaimed.

"Why give me something you're unsure of? Are you trying to get me into trouble?" Melanie was furious but controlled her anger, hissing, "You knew I was planning to use the formula for the annual perfume competition. How could you do this to me after everything I've done for you?"

"Tsk, tsk, such a short temper," Frank clicked his tongue indifferently and smirked. "It's a small, unimportant competition within your country. Why are you taking it so seriously?"

Melanie was speechless. It might be insignificant to him, but it meant the world to her. She'd won many awards using Lily's formulas, but as a rookie perfumer with a small company (MN Inc.), she couldn't enter the more prestigious categories or win national awards. This competition was different; she needed it to gain recognition and make a name for herself.

More importantly, she needed to elevate her social standing and escape Frank's control. Of course, she wouldn't tell him that; she needed his help fixing the formula. "I don't care; the formula isn't working, and you need to help me! I need to start on my perfume immediately. I'll win this competition!" she declared, her gaze drifting to the scenery outside the window.

"Alright, no problem. Let's go to your lab," he agreed readily, surprising Melanie.

However, she was now worried. If Frank came to the lab, Nathaniel might see him. Nathaniel disliked Frank and suspected an interest on his part in Melanie. Bringing Frank home would only cause unwanted trouble.

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